Fanous Mediterranean Grill

After leaving the beach down in Laguna I was starving and tired. Though I wanted sit down, getting take out to bring back seemed the best choice. I had never been here before but the server helped me with options, and arrange to put this together. The beef sultani was amazing, and i capped it with some kunafa for dessert. The outside space seems very inviting, and if I had more energy I would love to go back and enjoy the incredible smell of the cherry smoke . Plenty of parking, but it can be tight in between the spots

This place always was a mixed bag when it came to service but after my last experience we won’t ever come back. I had either a server or a person who claimed to be one of the owners come off as super nice but clearly was there to take advantage after giving us his sob story of not being able to afford living in the area. We were charged 160 dollars for a lunch menu kabob plate, an order of lamb chops, a hookah and 2 waters and a coke. FOR LESS than that over the week, we had the best sushi restaurant in SD, incredible Italian food for less and literally could have went to nobu Malibu for less. It’s sad especially when you get taken advantage by your own countrymen but whatever, we just won’t return EVER.

This restaurant's practices are deeply troubling. They took the liberty of tipping themselves using my card without my consent. On our last visit, we spent around $50 on a few drinks and a hookah, staying for only about 30 minutes. The employees’ attitude and attention were far from satisfactory. To make matters worse, they charged me the $50 plus an additional 25% tip without asking for my approval. Upon noticing the extra charge on my receipt, I returned to inquire about it. The staff appeared nervous as they tried to explain that they had taken the tip directly from my card without any prior discussion. It was an incredibly uncomfortable moment, leaving me feeling like I had been robbed. Experiences like this make me wary of ever returning to such places.

Why are you reading this review? Just get to Fanous as soon as you can! Amazing place! You definitely want to check this place out! I am not a hookah person but this place and the atmosphere made us want to try Hookah! The live music they have during the weekends is great! Sometimes it can be too loud but it is wonderful! The food is great and the service is excellent! It is a very happy and energetic environment! A must in OC!

The food presentation was great and the food itself was even better. I had the lamb chops with rice and a salad. I have to say, the chops were well marinated and the salad dressing was light but flavorful. I will come back again. Tony's hospitality was another great feature.